Chapter Eleven Summary

Gunnar is invited to speak at a rally protesting Boston University having granted an honorary doctorate degree and a hundred million dollars to an African politician. Gunnar becomes irritated by the introductory speaker and he openly shows his contempt. When he finally approaches the stand to speak, Gunnar decides that the best course is honesty. He says that while many people claim to be ready to die for an idea, few really are. As for himself, Gunnar says he is not ready to die for an idea, but he is simply ready to die. After he says it, Gunnar realizes his words sound like a promotion of suicide.

The following day reporters come to Gunnar's house and ask about his speech. They also ask for his comments concerning the recent suicide of the leader of the black student union, an act...